Perth Courier - Comings and Goings
supplied by Christine M. Spencer of Northwestern University, Evanston, Il., USA.
Child Desertion—Port Elmsley—On Monday evening,
23rd ult., about 10:00, Mrs. McNab and family, living on the Smith’s
Falls Road about two miles from this place, were aroused by a knock at the door. On going
out, a man presented himself saying he had a parcel for Miss McNab, who lives across the
road. Mrs. McNab kindly requested that the
parcel be left with her to be delivered in the morning.
The stranger handed Mrs. McNab a letter and started away as if to get the parcel but
to their surprise there was a woman sitting in the buggy holding the horse on the road and
he stepped in and the pair drove off. They
went to see which way they were going and found a basket which they supposed contained the
parcel but upon examination it was found to contain a baby girl about five months old and
also a considerable amount of clothing. On
opening the letter the mystery was revealed. It
was headed “Kingston” and said that they were man and wife but their marriage was a
secret one and they were forced to part with their darling and asking that the child be
cared for and brought up as one of their own. The
mother of the child repented of the rash act and returned two days later saying she could
not live without the child and begging them to let her have her child and allow her to
return home. She gave them her name as Smith and
said that she was from
Pat In Trouble: The only and original Pat Flaherty of North Burgess was brought before the mayor on Saturday charged by Chief Constable Stone with having been drunk and disorderly the previous day. The charge was fully satisfied and the unfortunate Pat was fined $2 and costs. This was paid. (Transcriber’s note: Another case here of poor journalism, common of the time. See the story in the next issue, a case of mistaken identity.)
The congregation meeting held in the Presbyterian Church, Balderson, on Monday, 30th Aug., and presided over by Dr. Bain and Rev. Dr. Burns, Perth, and it was unanimously agreed to give a call to J. G. Stewart, B.A., Queen’s College. The call was signed by all the members and adherents who were present and will be presented for the approval of the Presbytery at its next meeting.
Mr. A. H. Manning, formerly of Almonte, has passed his examination and has been sworn as an attorney.
Lunacy: On Thursday, 2nd inst., a woman named Mrs. Burns, Smith’s Falls, was brought to Perth and confined to gaol for being insane.
Mr. W.E. Motherwell’s son John Motherwell, Deputy Reeve, Bathurst, left Tuesday evening to attend the coming term of the Agricultural College near Guelph.
More Going: The family of Mr. Arthur Warner, Scotch Line, left here on Tuesday morning for Nebraska to join Mr. Warner, who preceded them some two or three weeks. It is sad to see this emigration of people going on day after day---not to Manitoba, where they should naturally seek a new home but to Dakota and Nebraska where a more enlightened land policy prevails.
Mr. A. Code, Inspector for the Ottawa District, took a first class certificate; Mr. Park, his assistant took a second class; and Mr. Gorman a third class at the recent examinations in connection with the Weights and Measures Branch of the Inland Revenue Department.
Normal School Candidates: The following students from Lanark County are attending the Ottawa Normal School this term:
John R. Turnbull, Mary M. Anderson and Ella McKerracher from Perth
Among other students are:
William G. Palten (?), Kemptville
Joseph G. Ross, Beachburg
Samuel Snedden and Misses Genevieve Stafford and Mary Wright of Farmersville.
Presentation: A deputation of ladies from the St. Andrew’s Church, Perth, called upon the Rev. Dr. Bain a few evenings ago and made a presentation to him of $120, a subscription of a number of the members of the congregation and friends, in expression of appreciation and their regard for him and his long pastoral care among them and in order for him to attend the meeting of the Presbyterian Council which takes place in Philadelphia next week. The liberal donation and the desire of the congregation that Dr. Bain should attend the great Presbyterian Council about to sit at Philadelphia will be fitting expressions of the reverend gentleman’s claim upon the congregation.
Mr. W. H. Wylie, Carleton Place, received a special prize at the Toronto Exposition for the woolen shawls made at his factory.
New Stock in Lanark—Mr. David Ward has opened a new store in Baird’s brick lock, Lanark, where he will keep a good stock of general dry goods and groceries.
Messrs Boyd Caldwell and Son, Lanark, took first prize for Canadian Scotch tweed, and first prize for Cashmere at the Exposition.
Drowned—We see by the Cape Vincent, New York, Eagle that Willie Field, a little son of Mr. W. W. Field, formerly of this town, was accidentally drowned in that village on the 13th inst. He was 7 years of age.
Correction: The party who was fined at the Mayor’s Court last week for being drunk and disorderly was not Patrick Flaherty as was stated but Terry Quinn of the same township.
Prizes for Woolen Goods—Among those manufacturers in Lanark County who carried off prizes at the Toronto Exposition now being held are: Gold medal, for the Woolen Company at Almonte; and also Messrs Boyd Caldwell and Son, Lanark; and Mr. William H. Wylie of Carleton Place.
Personal: Rev. A. Murdoch of Langley, Michigan and Dr. Frank Murdoch of Bradford, Pennsylvania, brothers of Mrs. J.G. Campbell, Perth, have been visiting the neighborhood for a few weeks past. They left for home on Tuesday morning. Before going they re-purchased an old family farm and homestead near Fallbrook where they will return for a few weeks each summer for recreation and rest.
Mr. George Love (or Lowe?), Carleton Place, has been paying a visit to the fine city of Rochester, New York, where we hope he is spending a pleasant time.
Dr. Archibald Fairbairn, formerly of this place, and son of Mr. J. K. Fairbairn, Brockville, has been nominated for coroner of Minneapolis.
Mr. Matthew Holliday, Sr. Clerk in A. Robertson’s store here leaves on Monday for Chenley (?) Bruce County, where he intends opening a general store in company with his brother.
Made Up—A number of people in Franktown have subscribed enough money to buy Mr. Lightbody, mail carrier, another horse in place of the one recently poisoned through the malice of some unknown person.
In Chancery—On Monday morning, some twenty witnesses in the Chancery suit regarding McLaren and Caldwell left Perth in the interest of Mr. McLaren for Brockville where the case is up for trial. On the same day and previous Saturday about the same number left Perth and Carleton Place on behalf of Messrs. Boyd Caldwell and Son. The case will probably occupy the attention of the court all week.
From Manitoba—Mr. William Hope returned from Manitoba last week. He took up 640 acres in that province near Swan Lake and intends returning there in time. He reports the land there is of the most fertile description.
Funeral Service—A service in connection with the death of the late Miss Ettie Kimberly will be preached on Sabbath evening next the 10th inst., in the Glen Tay Church by Rev. J. J. Haylock, services to commence at 6:30.
We observe that Mr. A. W. Bart of the Perth High School has matriculated at Toronto University.
Mr. John Couch, Drummond, is so well pleased with Manitoba that he intends to settle there and has taken land near Swan Lake. His farm here is offered for sale.
The liabilities of Mr. Robert Greenshield’s General Store of Carleton Place, who recently failed, are stated at $5,300 with assets nominally at $1,976. Mr. Greenshields was formerly a saw miller but thought he knew more about general store keeping, in which opinion he has been proved decidedly wrong. The creditors some time ago offered him a settlement at 65 cents on the dollar which he did not feel able to meet. He himself subsequently offered 57 and one half cents on the dollar, which his creditors refused. He has now made an assignment to Mr. C. H. Fait of Montreal.
Smith’s Falls—Last week Mr. W. J. Bennet shipped by barge for Montreal, there to be trans-shipped to Germany, 4,000 bushels of rye. This week, we believe, 8,000 more bushels will be shipped.
Mr. William O’Donnell, formerly of Perth and connected with the management of trains on the B. & O. Railway, died of typhoid fever at Antigonish, Nova Scotia. His family resides in Brockville.
Inspectorship—Mr. F. L. Mitchell was appointed by the city council Inspector of Public Schools in place of Mr. H. L. Slack, who resigned. We have every confidence that Mr. Mitchell will make a good inspector.
New Spire—We learn that under the vigorous pastorship of Rev. J. S. O’Connor, the R.C. congregation intends putting a spire on the church next summer. This will be a conspicuous ornament not only to the church but to the town. A bazaar will be held during this winter season to assist in defraying the cost. The church and parsonage have lately undergone a number of improvements which greatly add to their neatness and no doubt comfort as well.
Rye Shipment—Messrs. A. Meighen and Brothers will ship over 7,000 bushes or 12 carloads of rye towards the German market. They have nearly 3,000 more bushels to send off.
Mining Purchase—Mr. W. H. Wylie, Reeve of Carleton Place, and Mr. John F. Cram, Councilor, have jointly purchased all the mining rights on Mr. Daniel Lynch’s farm, Ramsay, and have sent out a gang of men to work on it.
Private Instruction—Mr. Jas. L. Downing, undergraduate of the 4th year at Queen’s University, requests us to announce that he will give private instruction in Greek, Latin, French or German to a limited number during the next few months. For further particulars, call at D. F. Armstrong’s Central Boot and Shoe Store on Gore Street.
Melancholy Accident—One of the saddest deaths known in this township for many years took place in the Township of Bathurst last week. The circumstances are these: On Wed., 24th inst., a young man named Dawson Kerr, son of Mr. Andrew Kerr of Fallbrook, went out on Mud Lake near that village to shoot ducks. Not coming home when expected his friends became alarmed and began a search and about 10:00 at night the unfortunate young man was found dead at the edge of the lake in which he was immersed to the waist. His arm was thrown over the side of the canoe and his head faced in that direction while in the boat were his shotgun and two ducks he had killed. The canoe was within its own length of the shore and his hat and paddle were near the land, having evidently been thrown there by him. The supposition is that someway or other the young man fell out of the canoe some distance from the shore and that he had swam towards land, pushing the boat before him. When very near the shore he came to the (unreadable word) soft (unreadable word) where he found it impossible to either wade or land for want of a foothold or to push the canoe further while he evidently could not clamber into the boat. To prevent himself from sinking out of sight he threw his arm over the canoe and called loudly for help time and time again. His cries were heard by neighbors but the imagined the cries came from the other side of the lake from hunters and they paid no attention to it. Meantime the unfortunate young man was in despair and slowly yielding to the terrible fate which was soon to be his. What must have been his feelings when no help came and he realized he was doomed to a slow and miserable death within a few feet of the land can only be imagined. It is enough to say that he perished at last from exposure and cold and when his friends found him, he had breathed his last. The grief of the parents was enough to draw pity from the coldest of hearts and it was thought the father would not outlive the son. The unfortunate young man was 23 years of age and was of a most amiable disposition. His remains were taken to Elmwood Cemetery on Saturday last. He was a nephew of Mr. George Kerr of Perth and Mr. Robert Elliott, late of this town.
Fatal Accident—Another of the old residents of Perth and neighborhood came to a sad end this week. On Tuesday last, Mr. Ralph Davidson, carpenter, who resided on Wilson Street, Perth, was hanging a barn door at the residence of his brother Thomas Davidson, near Glen Tay, Bathurst. He was in the act of fixing on the upper hinge when the scaffolding gave way and Mr. Davidson fell to the ground. Not getting up again, those around went to him to assist and found him already dead. He was old and in somewhat delicate health and it is supposed the shock alone was sufficient to cause his death without breaking any bones or causing any visible wounds. He was 63 years of age.
Mr. Joseph Murdoch, an old and well known resident of Perth, died at the house of Mr. Archibald (illegible last name) on Saturday last. He was a painter and was somewhat eccentric and miserly in his disposition. By means of a legacy got from the old country, and by extreme habits of thrift, he possessed at his death a wealth amounting to around $27,000, which he left by his will to relatives in the north of Ireland where Mr. Murdoch himself was born.
Sad Death—The death of Mrs. George Stone last week was the cause of much heartfelt sorrow among all classes. Only made a happy bride last Feb., and returned here from Manitoba but a short time ago for a brief stay. The messenger of death was a most sad and bereaving visitor. The relatives and especially the husband are assured of the deepest sympathy of their former townspeople.
Accident—Last Sunday evening a farmer living on the Scotch Line, Burgess, named Henry Dier, was going home a little the worse of liquor, driving a span of horses. The night being somewhat dark, the wagon missed the road and pitched out Dier among the rocks. He was severely injured and at the time of this writing it is not certain he will recover. (Note, see follow up story below where Mr. Dier claims he was not drunk.)
Mr. George Stone returned to Portage in Prairie on Monday evening. Mr. David Scott, Winnipeg, also started for there from here on the same train,
The Brockville Recorder of the 2nd inst., contains the subjoined sketch of Mr. Robert Barber and his invention. Mr. Barber properly belongs to this town or rather Glen Tay.
About two years ago a middle aged man named Robert Barber, a wagon maker by trade, came to Brockville and for some time worked as a stair builder. Although having served his time at his trade and being an excellent workman, he did not take kindly to the business and relinquished it to follow stair building. He seems to have been a natural genius and his workmanship in the residence of Mr. Jas. Hall and Mr. W. R. Bell still testify to his skill. He was in delicate health, however, and remained here but a short time until he bade farewell to his wife and started west having no place3 in particular in view but desirous only of reaching some climate which would grant a more congenial atmosphere than Canada afforded. He had been gone but a short time when a story reached his old house that he had struck it rich by utilizing the water power of an upland lake in supplying a mining region in Canada some miles distant with water for sluicing. Considerable money was netted by this manoeuvre and now we hear from him at Denver where from all accounts he has got what the miners term a “paying lead”.
It appears the a number of years past, an American named Eurastus S. Bennett of Denver has been at work at an invention known as a Dry Placer Amalgamator, by which placer gold hitherto of necessity thrown away in the refuse, being too fine to collect, is amalgamated. It is a well known fact wit miners with the usual mining appliance, only about 1/10th of the real value of any mine is available, owing to the fact that most of the gold is too find to be saved by the methods in use. Mr. Bennett’s machine was for the purpose of obviating this difficulty and although he had it in working shape for some time, what remained was for Barber to put it into practical working order. He invented various appliances for the Amalgamator including an auto feeder and was rewarded with a heavy share and the position of Assistant Superintendent in the company. The Merchants and Miners Review, a mineral journal published in New York, gave a detailed description of the invention however for us to reproduce it would be too long. The machine in Arizona had been sold for $3,500,000, while a still larger sum has been offered for California.
Purchase—Mr. Duncan McLaren, late of Carleton Place, has purchased property in Emerson, Manitoba for $1,000 for his livery and a residence.
We learn that Mr. T. H. Dyer, law student in the office of F.A. Hall, Esq., passed very creditably his second intermediate law examination at Osgoode Hall, Toronto, on Wednesday last.
Auction Sale: Attention is directed to the auction sale of farm stock and household furniture, etc., of Mr. Joseph Thompson of Oliver’s Ferry, on Tuesday next 10th November.
Caldwell’s Iron Mine, Lavant
Mr. Boyd Caldwell has 18 men working at his iron mine in Lavant and has 700 or 800 tons of the ore ready for shipment. He has lately received a splendid offer for the property.
A Good Sale—Mr. W. H. Grant, auctioneer, sold over $1,000 of farm stock for Mr. John Conits, Ferry Road, last week by public auction. Cows were sold for $21 apiece and sheep and lambs sold for $8 each. These were good prices.
Mr. C. H. Gamsby, C. E., is in town again this week, spending the summer on the Canada Pacific survey.
Mr. James Gillies, purchaser of the Code Woolen Factory, Carleton Place, was in town on Monday.
Sale of the Iron Mine: Last week Mr. David Machan, Dalhousie above Watson’s Corners, sold a piece of land containing an iron mine to a company represented by Mr. R. C. Sherrat, Perth, for $1,000.
Sheep Report—Lambs and sheep have begun to move to the States in large quantities. Last week Mr. James Donald brought a drove of 700 to town which he shipped to Boston as fast as he could find cars.
For Toronto: Mr. George Oliver, Elmsley, leaves for Toronto on Monday next, where he intends entering the Customs Service, preparing to take an exam in the Excise Department in the Spring.
Mr. Thomas Bennett has made Smith’s Falls the center of a large grain shipping business. This season there has shipped from there 21,000 bushels of rye, 8,000 bushels of oats, 600 bushels of barley and 800 pats of butter for which he has paid the large sum of $25,000.
Almonte High school—Mr. H. J. Stack, M.A., late Inspector of the Public Schools in this county, has been appointed Headmaster of the Almonte High School.
Gaolship—Mr. Robert Kelloch has resigned his position of gaoler for the County of Lanark. We understand that Mr. William H. Grant is to be appointed to the office.
Contradiction—Mr. Henry Dier, Scotch Line, who has recovered from his injuries says he was not the worse for liquor on the night he was thrown from his wagon when going home from town.
Poultry Fair—The date of the Perth Poultry Fair has been finally fixed for Friday and Saturday next, 10th and 11th December. A number of American buyers will be present as well as a host of local purchasers. This year Messrs A. Meighen and Brothers and Shaw, Matheson and McMaster intend buying themselves. Farmers may expect the best prices at Perth they are getting anywhere and had better bring in all they can scrape together of good meat. Careful attention should be given to killing and dressing.
Phosphate Factory—The Smith Falls News says that Mr. B. J. Brodies, Phosphate Factory at that place is rapidly approaching completion.
Auction Sale—Mr. Archibald McLaren, 4th Line Bathurst will offer for sale his farm, stock and implements and furniture at a public auction. See advertisement for date.
A subscriber in Minnesota sends us word of the death of Miss Dorothy Gunnie (or Gunnis). Deceased was a daughter of Mr. C. F. Gunnie (or Gunnis) late of the township of Bathurst.
Farewell Sermon—Rev. Mr. Burns of Knox Church will preach his farewell sermon on the Sabbath evening next. The Lord’s Supper will be held in the morning. The farewell meeting of the Bible Class will take place at 3:30 on the afternoon of the same date.
Mississippi Navigation Case—The great chancery case between Mr. Peter McLaren and Messrs. Boyd Caldwell and Sons in connection with the free navigation of the Mississippi and its navigable tributaries will be resumed in the courthouse in Perth on Tuesday, 7th December.
Auction Sale—Mr. W. H. Grant will sell at the residence of Mr. Duncan McLean, Dalhousie, on the Bathurst Line, the whole of his stock of furniture, implements, etc., on Thursday, 21st Dec. His farm will be offered for sale then and there.
Mr. Albert Douglas of Perth has passed his final examination for veterinary surgeon at Toronto. He intends practicing at Ottawa.
Fancy Butcher Shop—The Christmas display of meats and the decorations at Mr. E. J. Griffiths’ Meat Market were entirely unprecedented in Perth and were worthy of a city. The meat was mostly in bulk without being cut and was profusely decorated with fancy lettering, gift ornaments and other decorations. The meat was beautifully dressed and comprised beef, mutton, pork, venison, poultry, sausages, etc., and in front of the shop hung a number of brilliantly colored Chinese lanterns which added to the effect. Among the articles on display were a four year old heifer weighing 1,200 pounds and a three year old weighing 1,000 pounds, bought from Mr. John Doyle of Drummond. There was also a six year old from Mr. J. Wilson weighing 1,250 pounds and another fed by Mr. Griffiths himself weighing 1,300 pounds. Also on display were fat hogs from various people weighing 500-600 pounds.
Bled to Death—Mr. John Hearty of Franktown met with a singular and subsequently fatal accident, while chopping wood with a companion—one at each end of the log. They were about 40 feet apart when the axe flew out of the hand of one and struck Mr. Hearty inflicting a cut in the hip about 4 inches deep. A physician was summoned and the wound dressed but not until Mr. Hearty had been considerably weakened by loss of blood. On Sunday last Mr. Hearty rose to his feet imprudently before the wound had sufficiently healed which resulted in the cut bursting open followed by a copious flow of blood. The unfortunate man being possessed of great strength and a powerful constitution, lingered until Tuesday morning last when death resulted from the haemorrhage which had continued since the Sunday previous.
We are glad to learn the Mr. Jas. Allan, Jr., passed his examination for attorney in Toronto on Wednesday without an oral. He came out first on the list. Mr. W. J. Code, student in Mr. E. Elliott’s law office has passed his first intermediate examination at Toronto.
Yesterday evening a farmer named Graham living about one and a half miles outside the village of Smith’s Falls arose from bed at the usual hour of the morning, lit the fire and upon going into the bedroom to awaken his wife, was horrified to find her dead. Her body was cold and from appearances death must have visited the unfortunate woman early in the night. She was in excellent health upon going to bed about 10:00. Heart disease is supposed to be the cause of her sudden departure from life.
Mr. John Gardner, late of Dalhousie, who has been away from the township for about 7 years following the lumbering business in the Kerrville district, returned to his old home last week for a short stay. Most of the time he had been jobbing for the Kerrville Lumber Co., where some of the operations were from the Bat (?) Portage westward. Mr. Gardner looked as if the country agreed with him.
Auction Sale: An auction sale of farm implements, stock, etc., will take place on the farm of Mr. J. H. Martin, North Crosby, on Monday, March 7.
Auctioneering—Mr. James Patterson, bailiff, has taken out an auctioneer’s license for the county and is ready to attend to sales at any time “with prices to suit the times.”
Captain John W. Douglas and Second Lt., J.W. Motherwell, Perth, have received first class military certificates as the result of an examination held a short time ago by Captain Jackson of Brockville.
From Minnesota—Mr. Thomas Walsh, formerly of Maberly, and now of Fisher’s Landing, Minn., was in town for a while the other day. He reports that ¾ of the people in his neighborhood are Canadians. Most of them have left Canada since the present government came into power.
Real Estate: Mr. John Couch has sold his farm at Armstrong’s Corners, Drummond, to Mr. Robert Ferguson, Bathurst for $2,200. He removes to Manitoba. Mr. Archibald McLaren, 4th Line Bathurst, has sold his farm to Mr. John Weir, late of Lambdon Township and intends removing to Dakota
Lecture: Our readers will remember Mr. J. B. Watson’s lecture this evening in the Town Hall. Subject: Scottish Poetry by Robert Burns and Daniel O’Connell.
Almonte: Mr. Reuben McLean, formerly of Carleton Place, has passed his first intermediate law examination without an oral at Winnipeg on the 11th int.
Mr. James Noonan has taken out an auctioneer’s license for Bathurst and had two auctions already.
Halliday—The farmer from Montague sentenced some years ago to the Kingston Penitentiary for manslaughter has been released on petition before the expiration of his term.
Chief Engineer of the excavating department of the Shellington Cellars Excavating Company must be a Nihilist at least the way chunks weighing something less than a barrel of flour are flung about the neighborhood – all of which points to an intimate knowledge of all those explosions which so lately brought down the Czar of all Russias to such a terrible end. On Wednesday evening a mass of granite weighing 27 pounds was blown sky high from the cellar and landing in the street opposite Hick’s Hotel, chased a small boy into the hotel doorway nearly hitting him before he reached cover. Another piece, after looking for the moon overhead, ended its tempestuous career by knocking at the office door of Messrs. Meighen and Son while rocks like volleys have been perforating the roofs and shutters of Lillie’s Foundry, Hick’s Hotel and other buildings with a mile radius. We move a resolution to the effect that the enthusiastic bomb thrower put a little less steam or else cover up his blasts more effectively.
Almonte—The Exodus: On Wednesday the 2nd inst., a party of the season from the Ottawa Valley left for Manitoba and the West via the Canada Central in charge of Mr. T. W. McDermott. As far as we can learn the names of the families leaving from the vicinity of Almonte are:
For Grand Forks, Dakota: Mrs. Doherty, Mary J. Doherty, Annie Doherty, Philomena Doherty, Michael Doherty, John Doherty, all of Drummond.
For St. Paul: Mr. Terence Donohoe, Almonte.
For Manitoba: Mr. James Roth, Ramsay
Mr. James Seward, Mrs. Seward and family from Pakenham
Mrs. John Graham, Mr. William J. Graham and family of six from Huntley
Mr. James Keating, Mr. Alex Horn and Mr. John Geddes, Lanark
Mr. W. Johnson and family of 7—Carp
Mr. Jonathan Hughes & family of 7 and Mr. J. Code, Innisville
Mr. John Horn, Ramsay.
The emigrants from Lanark took with them one carload of farming implements and household furniture. A carload of horses (17) owned by Mr. James Robertson and Mr. Andrew Stevenson, Ramsay and a large quantity of baggage, etc., went from Almonte (unreadable words) country contributed 14 families of Poles who go to Minnesota. All other stations to the south of us and from Ottawa, large numbers followed the party and made at one time the largest that has left yet in this district. Most of the emigrants, we are glad to learn, will go to Manitoba.
Smith’s Falls—Mr. Thomas Graham, in a letter to the Brockville Monitor, gives the following particulars regarding the death of Mrs. Graham, which occurred suddenly on the 21st of last month. About 5:00 in the afternoon of the 20th (Sunday) two young men were returning from Smith’s Falls and when opposite Mrs. Graham’s house were the embankment along the river is very high and dangerous these two young men above mentioned recklessly attempted to crowd by a cutter going in the opposite direction but owing to a total want of judgment they upset and both rolled down the embankment while the horse and cutter went on. The young men were picked up by Mr. Graham, the husband, the husband of the deceased and a man by the name of Rice. Mrs. Graham had been afflicted with a disease of the heart for some years previous. She happened to be standing at the door when this mishap took place and seeing the whole affair became so excited and complained of palpitations of the heart until she went to bed that evening. About 4:00 in the morning her husband heard her moan. He got up at once and called her sister who was staying in the house at that time. They had hardly time to raise her up when she breathed her last. Her death was no doubt owing to the great excitement caused by the disgraceful scene described above.
Perth
Courier, April 1, 1881
Almonte—The position of bailiff for the Almonte Division Court having become vacant by the resignation of Mr. John McPherson, a new appointment will shortly be made by the Ontario government. One or two others are mentioned as being aspirants but as it is not a very “fat take”, the disappointed ones will probably not be very much aggrieved.
Almonte: The Census—Dr. Beatty of the Census Staff was in Almonte on Friday on business connected with the census. The enumerators for this are:
Almonte: Mr. J. M. Moore and Mr. P. Cunningham
Ramsay: Mr.
Andrew Watson (?) and Mr. John Cowan
Lanark: Mr.
William Ireton (?) and Mr. David Guthrie
Lanark Village: Mr. John Wright
Darling: Mr. Peter Guthrie
Dalhousie and North Sherbrooke and Lavant: Mr. James Donald and Mr. Archibald Penman.
Sad Drowning—Incident at Almonte
Dr. Montyn and J.W. Manning, Jr., the victims
On Tuesday afternoon the startling news was telegraphed from Almonte that Dr. Montyn and J.W. Manning of that town were drowned in the Mississippi River between this place and Appleton. The news created the saddest feelings here for the victims, especially the doctor, who are well known by most of our citizens. Next morning, Wednesday, our correspondent sent us the following particulars: A cloud of intense melancholy was spread over this town yesterday when it became known that Dr. Montyn and J.W. Manning were missing and unfortunately with too good reason, thought to be drowned. They both left here together in a boat early on Monday afternoon to go to Appleton, the former professionally and the latter on business. Having reached there and got through with what they had to do they left for home by the same means between 4 and 5:00 and have not been seen since. Their boat was discovered in the narrows before Appleton Bay. When found, it was turned upside down with one oar attached. The other oar was found some distance from the boat and the doctor’s cap a pace further on. There is no question as to the doubt of their being lost. Both gentlemen were very popular and will be greatly missed, especially the doctor, whose generosity to the poor was unbounded. Although every boat in town is being utilized and a diligent search is being made, it will be a mere accident if they are recovered before the warm weather sets in as the extreme cold of the water at this season will prevent decomposition from setting in. We give below a sketch of Dr. Montyn’s biography from Morgan’s Parliamentary Companion. Besides the information it contains we may add at the General Election of June, 1879, he was defeated for the local legislature by W. C. Caldwell of Lanark. He was at the time of his death president of the North Lanark Agricultural Society and the representative of the Rideau and Bathurst Division of the Medical Council, Ottawa. He was most generally speaking one of the most prominent men in North Lanark.
William Montyn, M.D., was of Welsh descent. The family moved to Ireland at the time of Cromwell and became land owners in Connaught. He was born in the town of Elphin, Rosommon, Ireland on the 5th (?) June, 1836 (?). He accompanied his parents to Canada in the following year and was educated at the grammar school in Kingston in which city they settled. He was a graduate with an M.D. of Queen’s University in 1858 (?). He was unmarried. He was a surgeon in the 42nd Battalion and he had been president of the North Lanark Agricultural Society since 1867 (?) and was elected first Reeve of Almonte in 1871 (?). He held this position for three years and he represented Rideau and Bathurst Division in the Ontario Medical Council from (illegible date) to (illegible date). He was assistant coroner for Lanark for 15 (?) years. He was D.D.G.M. for the Ottawa District of the Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Canada from 1867 to 1873. He also held a fellowship at Queen’s University. He was first returned to the Ontario Legislature at the General Election of 1875.
His companion, James W. Manning was the eldest son of Mr. J. W. Manning, License Inspector, North Lanark and now in England as a lecturer for the United Alliance Temperance Association. The death of his son will be a terrible blow. Young Mr. Manning was about 26 and was for years in the employ of Messrs. Brown and McArthur and their successor Mr. Robertson in the general store business in Almonte and was at the time of his death preparing to study with his brother in Clinton.
Killed In Colorado: Mr. John McLellan, Scotch Line, informs us that news has reached him of the death of his brother Mr. Laughlin McLellan, in falling down a shaft of a mine in Colorado. The young man left here about six years ago.
Normal School—The following have been admitted at Ottawa Normal School this session from this neighborhood:
Elma Chipman, Leeds
John A. Goth, and John Stevenson, Renfrew
Thomas Lockhart and Martha O’Brien, Frontenac
Bryce Saunders and Michael McGill, Leeds
Almonte: Recovery of Mr. Manning’s Body
On Wednesday last---six days after Dr. Montyn’s body was found---the body of James Manning was recovered. The cold and stormy weather absolutely prevented all search until last Wednesday although scores of anxious men visited the scene and waited patiently for the wind to fall. On Sunday there were at least 100 people waiting to search but it was impossible to do anything. On Wednesday the wind went down and the search was at last resumed. About mid-day the body was grappled and brought up at a spot near where Dr. Montyn’s had been found. It was at once conveyed to the family home in Almonte. The funeral will take place on Friday under the auspices of the Oddfellows of which Mr. Manning was a member.
Price of eggs--Messrs. A. Meighen, will now be paying twelve and one half cents per dozen, cash, for any quantity of eggs.
Mr. J. W. Manning and daughter have returned to their home in Almonte from England.
Maple Sugar: Mr. George Gray, 3rd Concession Bathurst, made over 7,000 pounds of maple sugar and 20 gallons of syrup up to Saturday and the season is not over.
Dropped Dead: An old man 70 years of age named Mr. Patrick Kennedy, North Burgess, was found dead on Monday. He had gone out to cut wood and not returning at supper time his friends went to see if anything was wrong. They found him laying dead among the wood. The infirmities of old age which had, after a lifetime of hard work, crept up on him causing his sudden death.
Fatal Accident—On Monday last Mr. Francis Troy, North Burgess, accompanied by his wife and six month old child, were driving to the house of a friend and an accident happened which caused the death of the infant and serious injuries to the parent. The horse shied from some obstacle and jumping to one side ran the buggy against something with such force as to throw them out. In falling, it is supposed the mother fell against the infant as its head was totally bruised. The child only lived a short while. Mr. and Mrs. Troy although much injured are able to get about.
Carleton Place: Suicide
Early last Sunday morning the rather unreceivable information spread that Mr. A. W. Dack was missing. On the previous evening Mr. Dack had made three unsuccessful attempts to find Dr. Preston. That gentleman was about town somewhere but happened to be out when Mr. Dack called. On one of his visits Mr. Code and Mr. Robert Waugh were in the office. When missed, the conclusion was formed that he had made way with himself. For some time he had been slightly mentally astray and had frequently wished he were dead. On this account many thought he had jumped into the river near the bridge and on Tuesday morning a number of men dredged this place with some slight hope and as showing their desire to do something. In the afternoon, however, on the strength of a remark made some days ago to Mr. George McPherson that “you need not be surprised if I should be found in Wylie’s flume some day”, a party went there to search and in a few minutes the body was found by Sam Davis. There was a deep dent over his right eye caused, it is thought, by his head striking against a piece of timber as he jumped off the railway bridge. The body was covered and taken home in a Wylie & Co. wagon. Mr. Dack kept a wholesale liquor and grocery store for some time here, but retired about two years ago and has since been making a good living out of his trade that of a shoemaker. He went to Brockville on Saturday and paid a bill of $50 and ordered new stock, returning on Sunday morning. He seems to have spent the day rambling around in a daze. His brother George arrived from Pakenham on Monday morning and Mrs. Dack’s brothers on Tuesday. Sympathy is very deep and widespread for the sorely afflicted family and there are many, some actively and some silently, trying to drive away the intense darkness of the day. Mr. Dack was always pleasant, always quiet, a kind husband and father and held in general esteem.
Kemptville: Golden Wedding—The anniversary of the 50th year of married life of Mr. and Mrs. George Sanderson of this village was celebrated at their residence on Friday, 15th inst. Of those present belonging to the family circle were their eldest son John C. Sanderson of London; Rev Mr. and Mrs. Bond of Pakenham; Mr. and Mrs. Templeton and Mr. and Mrs. Keith of Smith’s Falls; and Mr. and Mrs. T. Johnson of this place. The only absentee was the youngest son George Sanderson who is at present in Winnipeg. As tributes of affection, the family and friends presented them with many beautiful gifts. Before parting, Mr. Johnson, a photographer, photographed the whole group with the family dwelling in the background. We may mention that Mr. and Mrs. Sanderson were married at Fanna (?) Parish, Earlston (?) Bannockshire (?) Scotland on the 15th of April, 1831 and came out to this country immediately settling in Kemptville where they have resided ever since, enjoying the respect and esteem of a very wide circle of friends and acquaintances. It is worthy of remark that Mr. Sanderson’s mother is still alive, residing at Gavington, Bannockshire, with a son and a daughter and is now on the eve of her 100th birthday. Mr. and Mrs. Sanderson have living two sons and four daughters, all filling positions for themselves and a large number of grandchildren.
Queen’s University—Mr. Alexander McTavish, Balderson, received a degree of B.A. at the late examination at Queen’s University. He intends continuing his studies for the ministry. Mr. D. McTavish of Beckwith was also awarded with the degree of B.A. and carried off honors and scholarships. Mr. J. L. Downey, at present of Perth, received the degree of B. A. as well and at the final exam came out 5 of 28 who passed.
Almonte Sensation
Samuel Shaard Missing—Why Did He Leave?
The town of Almonte was in a state of excitement Tuesday owing to the rather mysterious disappearance of Mr. Samuel Shaard of the woolen manufacturing firm of Shaard and Thoburn, running a #3 woolen factory. Mr. Shaard was known as a steady and industrious man. He was formerly of the firm Elliott, Shaard & Co. but a short time ago he withdrew and with Mr. W. Thoburn rented the factory known as #3 and continued in business. Everything was progressing favorably so far as can be learned and no reason could be assigned for the absence of the gentleman. It is thought he may have been drowned in the river and parties rowed along the banks of the river in search of some clue which might lead to the justification of this suspicion but nothing was found, yet preparations were about being made to dredge the bed of the stream when it was learned from Conductor Chapman, who arrived on the afternoon train that Mr. Shaard had crossed the river at Brockville, having taken the cars at Carleton Place the evening before. Mr. Chapman stated that the mining man seemed to be in a depressed mental condition and that he sat alone in one of the cars and had the ticket pretty well rubbed to pieces by the time the conductor reached him. It seems that Mr. Shaard walked from Almonte to Carleton Place, avoiding people on the way. The belief is held that the man may have become insane, which would account for his departure. Ottawa Free Press.
To Manitoba—Mr. Thomas Greig, barrister, Carleton Place, has gone on a visit to Manitoba.
Hospital Grant—The late Dr. Wilson bequeathed the sum of $4,000 to the Montreal General Hospital.
Mr. Charles W. Spencer has been appointed Traffic Supervisor of the Canada Central Railway.
St. Andrews Church—Rev. Mr. Andrews, late of Perth and now of Chicago, will preach in St. Andrew’s Church here the next Sabbath, both services.
Gone to the Northwest—Mr. W. P. Murphy of Carleton Place, barrister, has left that village for Winnipeg. He intends hanging out his shingle somewhere in the Northwest Territories. Success to him.
Drowning Accident—A dispatch from Lanark says that about 5:00 Saturday morning, as some men employed by Mr. R. Caldwell and Sons on a drive were sweeping logs off Sheridan’s Rapids about six miles from Lanark one of them, a young man named Thomas Ferguson, fell off a log and although the water was only about 5 feet deep, he died, not rising to the surface. His body was recovered the next morning.
Mr. R. A. Matheson, son of Mr. Roderick Matheson of this town, has passed his final examination for attorney at the Easter examinations at Toronto.
Mr. W. A. Gotridge, head teacher in the Roman Catholic Separate School, Perth, has succeeded in carrying off the $50 prize offered by the Archbishop Lynch of Toronto to any qualified candidate getting a normal class Grade A certificate at the Ottawa Normal School. We congratulate Mr. Gutridge on his success.
Almonte: Emigration—On Wednesday Messrs. George Warren, Franklin Murphy and Robert Greenshields of Carleton Place left for the destination of Manitoba; S.J. Dickinson and family, Mrs. George Lowe and family and Mrs. Robert Dickson, son and two sisters of Pakenham left for the destination of Dakota; and Messrs Cochrane, McLean and Nantell of Ramsay and McIlraith of Innisville----four young men---left for the destination Manitoba and the Western States—all left this section on the C.C.R.
Perth
Courier, May 27, 1881
Mr. J. M. Cameron has received an order for a monument to be erected in memory of the late Mr. Joseph Murdoch. It is to be of Rutland marble with a nice fence around it. The cost will be about $300.
Death in Gaol—Mr. Joseph Thompson, an old and helpless vagrant, 76 years of age, died in the Perth gaol on Wednesday evening. The cause of his death was an affliction of the brain. For some time he had been subject to fits.
No News—The fate of Mr. Shaard of Almonte yet remains a dark mystery. There seems to be little doubt of suicide.
Sad Bereavement—We learn that the only son of Mr. Veitty, who removed from the Bathurst-Dalhousie line to Minnesota in the spring, died of measles a short time ago. The young man was twenty years of age.
Almonte: For the West—The following parties left here on the 24th for the western states and Manitoba: Mr. John Campbell and son and Mr. Gibson, wife and family of Lanark; Mr. R. H. Pounder of Pakenham; Mr. James Gilmour and brother, Mr. William Gilmour and Mr. S. Ferguson of Almonte. Four of those going to the states, the rest to Manitoba.
Notary Public—Mr. A. H. Manning, barrister, has been appointed Notary Public for this province.
We learn from the Pilot Mound correspondent that Mr. William Affleck and family have found a home in Manitoba.
Mr. James M. Balderson, formerly pupil in the Perth Collegiate Institute and Mr. A. W. Bart, lately one of the assistant masters, obtained first class honors in the recent annual exams at the University of Toronto. Mr. J. M. Balderson obtained first class honors in mathematics, ranking third in a class of 9 first class men. Mr. A. W. Bart won first class honors in English, ranking second in a class of first class men; also he obtained first class honors in French, being first in his class and ranking second among the first class honors in German.
Mr. D. A. Matheson, Perth attorney, has opened a law office in the village of Eganville, County Renfrew.
Mr. Robert Kellock, late gaoler of Perth, has gone to Winnipeg to visit his daughter, the wife of Captain Scott, M.P.
The health of Mrs. J. W. Manning, Almonte, having been very poor lately, her husband has taken her west, hoping to restore her health. He will return immediately.
There is no news yet of Mr. Shaard, who disappeared from Almonte a few weeks ago. Mr. Shaard is number three who have disappeared from Almonte within a few years. Number one had been a clerk in Greig’s Drug Store; and number 2 was a man named Shaw, a druggist, a brother of the present day deputy reeve of Drummond.
Dreadful Accident—On Thursday evening of last week a little after 9:00 our citizens were more or less surprised by the whistle of an approaching train and the conjectures were many as to what untoward event should bring a train or any part of which into town at that unusual hour. It soon became known, however, that the train brought sad news from Smith’s Falls and that its errand here was to take Mr. and Mrs. William O’Brien from here out to that village to take charge of Mrs. O’Brien’s nephew Mr. James W. Tierney, a conductor of a freight train who had that evening met with a terrible accident at Smith’s Falls. What occurred has been told as follows: Mr. Tierney had charge of a freight train from Brockville up and about 8:00 brought it to Smith’s Falls where some changes were necessary. During this process he sent the brakeman, named Craig, for a pail of water and went himself to couple some of the cars. It is supposed that having placed the pin in its place the jar of the bumpers caused it to fly out again and that in stooping to pick it up off the ground he stumbled and fell or was knocked down by the cars which were still on the move. The wheel then having caught him ran over his leg and arm, the leg being crushed almost from the ankle to the thigh and the arm totally broken. He was at once taken into town but no medical aid was available. The unfortunate young man expired about midnight probably from loss of blood and exhaustion. The event cast a gloom over the line and points along it where Mr. Tierney was known. He was for several years in the employ of the road and though yet young, had within a year obtained the position of freight conductor. He was well known in Perth for while a boy he had been a frequent visitor. He was a quiet young man of steady habits, faithful to his duties and would have, if spared, no doubt have risen to a good position on the Canadian Pacific. His remains were buried on Friday at Smith’s Falls beside those of his mother whose death took place a few years before.
The Kingston Whig says: “On June 1, Mr. Archibald Strechen was wedded in Hamilton to Edith Falconer, daughter of the late Mr. James Falconer, of this city. The many friends of the bride, who is a special favorite, will be glad to welcome her return to Kingston and especially under such happy circumstances.” (The bride is a sister of Mrs. W. C. Caldwell and of Mrs. T. B. Caldwell of Lanark Village.—Cox)
By an item copied into the Toronto Christian Guardian we learn of the death of a somewhat distant native of this county—Rev. Dr. Castle of the Philadelphia Methodist Ministry. The deceased was born in the Township of Bathurst and was the son of an old British soldier who drew land at the close of the War of 1812.
Mr. J. W. Tierney, whose death on the rail was chronicled last week, had his life insured for $1,000. His father is already in receipt of the money.
Dr. W. J. Neilson of this town, left Sunday morning for the town of Loomis, Michigan to practice his profession. The doctor leaves many warm friends here.
Mr. John McDonald, farmer, Lake Dore, informs the Eganville Enterprise, that the foot disease better known as foot rot, has broken out among his cattle, two of them being very weak and not expected to live. We also are informed that Mr. John Pollack of Wilberforce shot one of his cows on Sunday last who also had this disease.
Almonte: Still They Go—On Wednesday morning a special train hence to join the excursion to Manitoba passed here about 8:00 and received a large addition to the load and local agent Mr. McDermott tells us he issued 51 tickets which would cover about 71 persons young and old. They are:
Messrs Drummond, Duncan, Affleck and Taylor and others taking away five carloads of splendid cattle and sheep and there was one car of personal baggage. The following were among the party:
Mr. Archibald Taylor, wife and family (6); Mr. John Affleck, wife and family (5); Mrs. D. McIntyre and family (3?); Mr. William McDougall---from Lanark Township.
Mr. Patrick Murphy of Darling Township.
Miss McCoy; Mrs. Charles Simpson; Mrs. Charles Simpson, Jr.; Mr. F. Graham; Mr. Dougald McPherson; Mr. R. Toop; Miss Duncan—all of Almonte.
Mr. R. Duncan and wife; Mrs. McKittrick; Mr. James Sneddon; Mr. John Sneddon, Mr. Matthew Drummond, wife and family (8)—all of Ramsay.
Mr. Daniel McArthur—Beckwith.
Some of these are only on a visit and will return in a few weeks; others go to select land and will return again but the majority go to stay. While we regret to loose so many of the hardworking people of the neighborhood we are glad that Canada does not lose them but that they all intend to settle in the Province of Manitoba.
Perth Courier, July 8, 1881
Ordained—Henry Beer, formerly principal of the Perth Public Schools, has been ordained a Deacon in the Church of England and has been licensed to preach to the congregation of St. Joseph’s Island, Lake Huron.
Mr. J. T. White, the active and successful agent at Brockville for the Canada Life Assurance Company, has been appointed special agent of the company for eastern Ontario. This will necessitate his removal from Brockville to Kingston, a fact which the people of Brockville will have good reason to regret. Mr. George Weatherhead of this town, his late partner, will take Mr. White’s place in Brockville.
New Law Firm—Mr. Jas. A. Allan, barrister, has left Arnprior and come into partnership with Mr. Edward Elliott, Perth, in the law business. The name of the firm will be Elliott and Allan.
Chirivari—Mr. Archibald Gillies of Franktown was chiravaried the other night on the occasion of his second matrimonial venture three weeks after the death of his first wife. He bought the crowd off with a $2 bill the first night and received them the next night with a shotgun.
A Bonanza—We understand that last week Mr. Edward Elliott and Mr. William Hicks of Perth and Mr. John F. Thompson of Bathurst jointly sold a lot of iron mining lands to an American company for $30,000. To speak precisely $30,000 was given for two lots and $10,000 for a third with an additional 6% royalties. (See follow up story the next week refuting this.)
A Fine Monument—Perhaps the finest monument in Elmwood Cemetery is that erected a few days ago by Mr. F. R. Allan of this place in memory of his wife whose remains were interred here last summer. The monument is of the purest Rutland marble and the design and work something exquisite. It consists of an upright slab of the gothic style with a pointed top and turrets with a wreath of flowers beautifully sculptured on its face in union with the inscription. Various features of the monument also commend themselves for their beauty and uniqueness. The base is also of marble. This work of art was executed by Price and Calder, Brampton, Ontario.
Shocking Affair—On Sabbath last a fire broke out in the store of Messrs. P. Duncan and Co. Clark’s Mills and the building and its contents were destroyed. Unhappily a young man named Seth Duncan, son of the proprietor, in re-entering the building for some valuables, suffocated from the smoke and his body was burned to a crisp. The unfortunate young man was a brother to Mrs. Joshua Bower, whose husband is a druggist in this place.
The Iron Bonanza—We are informed that the announcement last week of the sale of iron in Lavant by Messrs. Elliott, Hicks and Thompson is premature, no bargain having been yet closed.
Hymeneal—We clip the following from the London Advertiser on the 20th July. The happy groom is a son of Mr. Michael Cunningham, Perth, and was formerly in the jewelry store of Mr. William Northgraves here. “At 9:00 yesterday morning at St. Peter’s Cathedral was the scene of an important social event. A large assembly, the majority being young people, manifested their interest by being present and eager to get a glimpse of the bride, Miss Mathilda Phillips, of this city, formerly organist at St. Mary’s Church. The groom is Mr. Daniel Hugh Cunningham. In his youth he was a resident of London and now is a prominent jeweller in Plattville. Mr. C. Harvey of the Post Office staff acted as groomsman and Miss Annie Phillips, sister of the bride, was bridesmaid. The bride was given away by her uncle Mr. Gelane (?) from Toronto and the ceremony performed by Rev. Father Golnane (?), Toronto, cousin of the bride, assisted by Rev. Father Tiernan (?), P.P. The party left for Toronto on the afternoon train.”
Messrs. William Robertson and Duncan A. Stewart, Pilot Mound, and formerly of the County of Lanark, have been appointed Justices of the Peace for the Province of Manitoba.
Messrs. John W. Douglas and Edward Elliott, of this place, left for Winnipeg on Wednesday evening by the Grand Trunk Excursion. Their objective is to look after investments there.
Retiring—We are sorry to learn that ill health has compelled Mr. James Gillies of the Carleton Place Woolen Mills (Code’s) and the Braeside Saw Mill, to retire from business until has system recuperates. He offers his woolen factory for sale.
Shut Down—The saw mills of Messrs Boyd Caldwell and Sons, Carleton Place, are shut down entirely today for want of logs, the drive being irretrievably stuck for this summer at and above High Falls. We understand an action for damages is to be entered against Mr. Peter McLaren by the Messrs. Caldwell for preventing the latter’s logs from coming down the stream and for the loss thereby sustained.
Almonte Chess & Crackers Club—The Chess and Crackers Club was organized on Friday evening by the election of its officers:
President—Mr. William Templeman
Secretary-Treasurer—Mr. O.E. Henderson
Caretaker—Mr. R. W. Haydon
Committee of Management—Mr. J. W. Manning, Mr. Robert Young and Dr. Patterson.
About twenty have already joined for $1.00 per year. The club room is in the rear of Haydon’s Tailor Shop. The Perth draught players may expect a challenge in a week or so.
Unfortunate—Mr. John White of Ottawa, brother to Mr. T. R. White of Almonte, lost two of his children last week and buried them in Perth. During a heavy storm, his house was struck by lightening and his wife, mother-in-law and infant (at the time in its mother’s arms) were prostated by the strike and were for some time insensible. The infant, six months old, died from the effects and the other child succumbed to some infantile complaint.
Long Voyage—The physicians have ordered Mr. John F. Bain of Winnipeg, son of Dr. Bain of Perth, to take a voyage to Australia in the hope of trying to restore him to health. The past winter and spring were spent in the south of France.
Almonte: For the West—The train for Manitoba on the Grand Trunk on Thursday, 4th inst., had quite a company from this neighborhood. Among others were:
Mrs. George Ferguson and three children
Miss Bella Ferguson
Mr. J. A. Reid
Mr. D. H. Davis
Mr. T. Foley
Mr. W. McEwen
Mr. M. Carran
Mr. J. Simpson
Mr. T. W. McDermott
Mr. M. Mundy
All of the above were from Almonte
Mr. George Wilson, and Mr. J. Hartney, Sr., both of Arnprior
Reverend and Mrs. Simpson of Carleton Place.
Messrs. Finlay McIntyre and Walter McIlquhan left Perth for Manitoba on Monday, the former going for his health and the latter possibly to settle there.
Mr. William Paul, wishing to retire from farming, offers his farm for sale at Ottay Lake (the former Oliver farm) at reasonable terms.
Juvenile Thieves—Two boys named Patrick and Michael O’Brien, brothers aged 9 and 13 years and hailing from Almonte were committed to the Perth gaol on Saturday last by Justices Manning and Patterson of that town to stand their trial for larceny. The youngest boy, it appears, entered the house of Mr. Robert Cameron, contractor, and carried off $65 in cash, afterwards dividing it with his elder brother who, it appears, had accepted it without realizing the serious position in which it would place him. The money was recovered except for $7. Out of this a pistol had been purchased for $5 and the other $2 having been expended in Lacrosse sticks, etc. They will soon experience the punishment which such conduct deserves.
Mr. J. H. Balderson, B.A., of Perth, who carried off the silver medal in math at Toronto University, has accepted the position of math master at the Port Hope Collegiate Institute.
For Ireland—Mr. Joseph Woods and his wife, having disposed of their property in town, left yesterday for their native land, Ireland, to end their days.
Auction Sale—An auction sale of farm stock, implements, furniture, etc., of Lawrence Russell (?) on the 5th (?) 8th (?) Concession of North Burgess, will take place on Friday next, Sept. 8.
To Gaol—On Friday the man Hugh Robinson, who had been fined $10 a few weeks ago for disorderly conduct, was sent to gaol for 22 days, he having neglected to pay the fine within the time given him.
Hymeneal—The “happy man” referred to in the following article is Hector Scott, formerly Montreal Telegraph operator here and son of Mr. John Scott of Almonte. “The marriage of Hattie F. Wolcott, daughter of Mr. C. H. Wolcott, late of this town, to Mr. H. Scott, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was a quiet and happy wedding, the ceremony being performed by Rev. Edward C. Ewing of Enfield, at the residence of Mr. George C. Ewing, Dwight Street, Holyoke. The lady and gentleman are spending a day in this town and leave tomorrow for Niagara Falls and the west.”
For Dakota—Mr. Jas. A. Wright, the once popular auctioneer of Almonte, has left there for Dakota Territory where he will follow the old business of an auctioneers, in which profession Jim had few superiors.
Died at Gaol—Antoine Pepin, an old man from S. Sherbrooke, who had been confined in the Perth gaol for some time as a vagrant, died on Tuesday, 30th August from a general collapse of the system. He was 77 years of age.
Sentenced—The O’Brien boys, confined to the Perth gaol for larceny, were sentenced by Judge Senkler last week. The older boy, having been the recipient of stolen money, was given two months in goal. The younger boy, having been the thief, was sent to the Ontario Reformatory for two years. Should his conduct not prove satisfactory during imprisonment, the sentence is to be extended for two more years.
Robert Downey, the man who captured Yankoughnet, the Beck Lake murderer, was killed on Tuesday by falling into a culvert.
Almonte: Death of an old settler—We are called upon this week to chronicle the death of one of the pioneer settlers of Lanark County, of whom but few are now living, in the person of Mrs. William Paul Sr., 7th Line Ramsay. The sad event took place on Friday last and while not unexpected, the news of her death was received with sorrow by a large circle of her friends. The funeral took place on Monday and the large number who followed her remains to the grave showed the universal esteem and respect in which she was held by the community. The deceased was one of the very early settlers in Ramsay, having, with her husband, emigrated from Glasgow, Scotland—their native land—in the year 1821, sixty years ago, and settled in Ramsay, the same year and on the farm on which she resided continuously until her death. She attained the ripe old age of 84 years and for the past 26 years had been an invalid, caused by a severe attack of rheumatic fever, an affliction which she bore with exemplary patience and resignation. Although physically disabled, she was strong intellectually and it was always a pleasure to hear her relate her experiences in the early years of her life in Ramsay—a time when Almonte had no existence and when Lanark County was almost a trackless forest. Few can imagine the hardships endured or the obstacles which had to be overcome by the settlers at that time and the present generation should not forget that they have these hardy pioneers to thank for paving the way to the fertile farms and prosperous villages which are to be seen today throughout the county. Thus one by one they pass away until at present but few remain and are leaving behind them examples of industry and energy and perseverance which will not soon be forgotten.
Posted: 17 July, 2003